Name: Crispy Fried Chicken Wings Inspired by Chinese Takeout
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 72 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds Chicken Wings (Whole or split); 1/4 cup Soy Sauce (Use tamari for gluten-free); 1 tablespoon Fish Sauce (Worcestershire sauce is a substitute); 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil (For authentic flavor); 1 tablespoon Shaoxing Wine (Dry sherry works in a pinch); 1 cup Cornstarch (Mix with all-purpose flour for thicker crust); 2 teaspoons Spices (garlic powder, ginger powder, etc.) (Customize to your liking)

As I peeled back the takeout container, the aroma of soy sauce and sesame oil wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to my favorite Chinese restaurant. If you’re anything like me and crave that satisfying crunch of Fried Chicken Wings without the wait, I’ve got the perfect homemade solution for you! These Chinese Takeout Style Fried Chicken Wings are packed with bold Asian flavors and are remarkably easy to prepare, making them a comforting snack for any occasion. With a quick marination process that infuses every bite with savory goodness and a crispy exterior, they promise to satisfy even the deepest cravings. Plus, they’re a much healthier alternative to fast food—who wouldn’t love that? Ready to dive into frying magic? Let’s get cooking!

Why Are These Wings So Irresistible?

Bold flavors await in every bite! These Fried Chicken Wings are not just wings; they’re a culinary journey to your favorite Chinese takeout. Effortless preparation makes this dish a go-to for anyone craving comfort food without the hassle. Crispiness guaranteed with our simple cornstarch technique, ensuring each wing is golden and crunchy. Versatile options abound—switch things up by adding chili flakes for heat or swap chicken for cauliflower for a vegetarian twist! Pair these wings with fried rice or a refreshing mixed vegetable salad for a complete meal. Say goodbye to boring fast food and hello to kitchen fun!

Fried Chicken Wings Ingredients

• Dive into the delicious details that make these fried chicken wings a standout!

For the Wings

Chicken Wings – The main protein; whole wings or split for variety can elevate the dish.
Soy Sauce – Adds that essential savory umami flavor; use tamari for a gluten-free option.
Fish Sauce – Provides a unique depth of flavor; Worcestershire sauce can be a suitable substitute.
Sesame Oil – Infuses the wings with a nutty aroma; don’t skip this for authentic taste!
Shaoxing Wine – Imparts a distinct flavor; dry sherry works in a pinch, or feel free to omit.

For the Coating

Cornstarch – Ensures a gratifying crispiness; mix with all-purpose flour if you prefer a thicker crust.

For the Seasoning

Spices (garlic powder, ginger powder, etc.) – Choose your favorites to enhance the overall flavor; customize to your liking!

These fried chicken wings embody comfort food perfection that you can easily whip up at home. Enjoy!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chinese Takeout Style Fried Chicken Wings

Step 1: Marinate the Wings
Begin by combining your chicken wings in a large mixing bowl with soy sauce, fish sauce, sesame oil, Shaoxing wine, and your chosen spices like garlic and ginger powder. Ensure each wing is well-coated, then cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Allow the wings to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for best results, refrigerate them overnight to deeply infuse the flavors.

Step 2: Prepare Frying Station
As the wings are marinating, set up your frying station. In a deep pan or a Dutch oven, heat oil to 350°F (175°C)—a thermometer is key here. To test if the oil is hot enough, drop a small piece of bread in; it should bubble and brown quickly. Make sure you have enough oil to submerge the wings for an even fry.

Step 3: Coat Chicken Wings
Once your wings are marinated, it’s time to achieve that crispy exterior. Remove the wings from the marinade, shaking off any excess liquid. In a shallow bowl, place cornstarch and generously dust each wing, ensuring they are completely coated. This cornstarch layer will give your fried chicken wings their signature crunch—let’s get that golden color!

Step 4: Fry the Wings
Carefully add the coated wings to your hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan, which can drop the temperature. Fry them in batches for about 10-12 minutes, flipping occasionally until they’re golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Enjoy watching them bubble and cook to perfection!

Step 5: Drain Excess Oil
Once your wings are beautifully golden and crispy, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the hot oil. Place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. This step is crucial for keeping your Chinese takeout style fried chicken wings crunchy and not greasy, showcasing their irresistible texture!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Now that your wings are ready, serve them hot alongside fried rice or your favorite dipping sauce. These crispy fried chicken wings, infused with Asian flavors, are a delightful homemade snack that will surely satisfy any craving for comfort food. Dive into the deliciousness!

Variations & Substitutions for Fried Chicken Wings

Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize these wings to suit your taste buds!

Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or Szechuan pepper to the marinade for an exciting heat that will awaken your senses. Just a sprinkle can turn your savory wings into a mouthwatering spicy treat!
Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option that still brings that essential umami flavor. Your friends won’t even notice the difference!
Veggie Delight: Swap out chicken for cauliflower to create a delightful vegetarian version. Coat the florets just like wings and enjoy a satisfying crunch without the meat!
Baked Option: For a healthier spin, toss the wings in less oil and bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 30 minutes, flipping halfway through. You’ll get crispy wings without deep frying!
Crispy Coating: Mix in all-purpose flour with cornstarch for an extra crispy exterior if you’re after a heartier crunch. The combination brings a lovely texture that complements the juicy chicken inside.
Herb Infusion: Enhance flavor with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions added to the marinade. They lend a refreshing taste that lightens each bite beautifully.
Sweet Touch: Add a splash of honey or maple syrup to the marinade for a delicious sweet-savory balance. This irresistible combination complements the salty soy sauce perfectly, creating wings that shine!
Asian Charms: Incorporate five-spice powder into your seasoning mix for an aromatic twist that adds a depth of flavor inspired by traditional Chinese cuisine. Your taste buds will thank you!

Looking for scrumptious side dishes to pair with your wings? You can’t go wrong with a hearty serving of Chicken Enchiladas Comfort or some flavorful Garlic Butter Chicken to elevate your meal! Enjoy your culinary journey!

Make Ahead Options

These Chinese Takeout Style Fried Chicken Wings are perfect for meal prep and can save you invaluable time during your busy week! You can marinate the wings in the flavorful soy sauce and spices up to 24 hours in advance, sealing in richness and keeping them juicy. Simply cover the marinated wings with plastic wrap and refrigerate them. On the day of cooking, remove them from the fridge, dust with cornstarch, and fry them until golden brown. By prepping ahead, you won’t lose flavor, and these wings will be just as delicious as if you’d made them fresh!

Expert Tips for Fried Chicken Wings

Temperature Control: Keep an oil thermometer handy to ensure the oil stays at 350°F (175°C) for even frying and perfect crunchy wings.
Don’t Overcrowd: Fry wings in smaller batches to prevent lowering the oil temperature; overcrowding leads to soggy fried chicken wings!
Marination Magic: Experiment with longer marination times. Overnight soaking enhances flavor depth, so consider prepping ahead for even tastier wings.
Cornstarch Coverage: Ensure a thorough coating of cornstarch for maximum crispiness; any excess should be shaken off before frying.
Resting Period: Allow the cooked wings to drain on paper towels for a few minutes before serving to keep that delightful crunch intact.

What to Serve with Chinese Takeout Style Fried Chicken Wings

Creating a feast around crispy, mouthwatering wings takes a little planning, but it’s a culinary delight worth savoring.

Fried Rice: A classic pairing that complements the bold flavors of the wings with its savory, umami-rich seasoning.
Mixed Vegetable Salad: Fresh, crunchy vegetables provide a refreshing contrast and balance the richness of the fried chicken.
Sweet and Sour Sauce: A deliciously tangy dip that adds brightness and extra flavor, enhancing the overall tasting experience without overwhelming.
Garlic Noodles: These buttery, garlicky noodles are hearty and satisfying, making them a comforting companion for your wings.
Chili Soy Dipping Sauce: A spicy, tangy sauce that brings an extra kick and brings all the flavors together beautifully!
Crispy French Fries: The golden, crispy texture of fries adds a satisfying crunch, creating a delightful mouthfeel with every bite.
Asian-inspired slaw: A tangy, crunchy slaw adds freshness and a zesty touch, helping to balance the savoriness of the wings.
Iced Green Tea: Refreshing, lightly sweetened iced green tea acts as the perfect palate cleanser, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Storage Tips for Fried Chicken Wings

Room Temperature: Fried chicken wings should be consumed within 2 hours of frying if left out. Any longer could lead to food safety concerns.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Ensure the wings are completely cooled before sealing to maintain their texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the wings in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a sealed freezer bag for up to 3 months. This helps preserve their flavor and crunch.
Reheating: To reheat, bake wings in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. This method helps restore their crispy exterior, making them just as delightful as when freshly made!

Fried Chicken Wings Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken wings should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use whole chicken wings or split them into flats and drums according to your preference. Whole wings provide more meat, while splitting them can create a fun variety for serving!

How should I store leftover fried chicken wings?
For optimal freshness, store any leftover fried chicken wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply allow them to cool completely first to maintain their crunch. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes until they’re crispy and heated through.

Can I freeze the fried chicken wings, and if so, how?
Yes! Freezing is a great option for longer storage. First, place the cooled wings in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then freeze until solid. Transfer them to a sealed freezer bag, pushing out as much air as possible. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, just bake them at 375°F (190°C) until they’re crispy again!

What can I do if my wings aren’t crispy?
If your fried chicken wings aren’t crispy, it might be due to overcrowding the pan or the oil temperature being too low. To avoid this, fry the wings in smaller batches and use a thermometer to keep the oil at 350°F (175°C). If they are still not crunchy, consider dusting them with more cornstarch before frying; this will help create that desired crispy texture!

Are there any dietary considerations for these fried chicken wings?
Indeed! Please note that these fried chicken wings contain gluten from the soy sauce. If you need a gluten-free option, you can substitute it with tamari and ensure any other sauces used are gluten-free. Also, if serving to pets, it’s best to stick to plain, unseasoned chicken as most seasonings aren’t beneficial for their diets.

Can I make these wings spicy?
Very! You can easily spice them up by adding some chili flakes or Szechuan pepper to the marinade. Adjust the amount according to your spice tolerance—it’s a wonderful way to take these fried chicken wings to the next level!